How Soil Organisms Improve Soil

Soil microorganisms (figure 1) are responsible for most of the nutrient release from organic matter. When microorganisms decompose organic matter, they use the carbon and nutrients in the organic matter for their own growth. They release excess nutrients into the soil where they can be taken up by plants.

How do soil organisms help the soil?

The actions of soil organisms are extremely important for maintaining healthy soils. These organisms can change the physical organization of soil by creating burrows, can add nutrients to the soil through the breakdown of dead leaves, and can help to control the populations of other soil organisms, [4].

How are living organisms important for improving soil fertility?

Living organisms play an important role in the formation of soil. They increase fertility of soil and also help in maintaining structure and aeration of soil. … Soil organisms decompose organic matter of dead and decaying animals and plants and enrich the soil with inorganic nutrients, which can be taken up by plants.